This started off as a simple autopsy of a faulty lamp and turned into something so much more. It's a very clever design that makes the circuit very universal.
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18 thoughts on “Inside a very clever led headlight lamp.”
  1. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Rich Ernst says:

    I know this is pretty old, but wondered if you can buy those LED arrays and replace it to repair the lamp?

  2. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars JAMES T. says:

    It would probably cook the LEDs better if the heat sink was copper with aluminum fins for cooling, but that would raise the cost, crazy the price range of these things, from about $5,, to around $60 each possibly more, but what is the difference? What could influence the difference in cost, how is it justified, I have seen a pair of headlight bulbs, $150-$160, and I have even bought a pair that was $15 that worked for a while! And was fairly bright, I try not to get the ones that are priced the lowest, and always check the feedback, to be sure they do not fail early, I keep my old bulbs that work anyway, so I can use it as a emergency replacement! Awesome video, it's the only one I saw the internals of these bulbs, also I have seen these bulbs voltage range from 9v to 3?v and to high as 80v, and I have a led bulb in my scooter, it's up to 90v and ac powered!

  3. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars PJ Ford says:

    The reason for all the diodes is that some cars switch the ground, others switch the positive to toggle between high and low beams. One thing I've noticed is the cheap amazon ones don't have all the decoupling caps installed. They pretty much drown out FM radio.

  4. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Mark McConnell says:

    I have told people in the past that manufacturers can make battery powered devices that will function regardless of battery, (or cell) orientation. But it would cost more.

    I realized that after I accidentally installed a battery into a guitar tuner which had no protective diode…It was dark in the room!…and I probably had been partaking in such…and I, I ….ed up and it cost me a tuner.
    It was an Ibanez tuner…but back in late 80's so, maybe they have changed that design since then?

    Oh yeah! And Dewalt did not have over-charge protection in some of, (maybe all?) their batteries until "after" I had a charger go bad. And, let's just say that some manuals state that you should not charge your battery in a living area…like your bedroom…where one sleeps.
    Dewalt did bunkis for me.

    Sorry. I guess I strayed off on a tangent.

  5. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars James Needham says:

    No worries for negativly switched vehicles, nice

  6. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Jorge Luis says:

    Thanks for going in depth with this.

  7. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Yohan says:

    i have a similar one, my headlight just went out so i want to try use one to replace the dead one and see how it goes, but based on this video i might just go back to regular bulbs if it spoils like this one.

  8. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Matthew Holzinger says:

    Seeing some reviews of LED headlamps have kept me away. The only LED lamps I have in my van are backup lamps.

  9. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars andu fuse says:

    good

  10. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Paul Lelys says:

    Doesn't surprise me if they have been over driven. Several times I've been blinded by the new type LED headlights and even the brake lights.
    Waiting in line for a food order the other day I had to hold my hand up because the red brake lights from the car in front were so bright I was getting blinded.
    Very annoying and unnecessary.
    Almost like they think the light will somehow stop me from running into them. Pity they don't make the rear of cars with a "bumper bar" any more.

  11. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Aylesbury Numpty Drivers says:

    It's just a shame that anyone who retrofits these in a halogen light will fail the mot

  12. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Quantum Leap says:

    Somehow I missed watching this video four years ago, but not to worry, I just did watch it. Interestingly enough, your remark about reducing the voltage on the LEDs to prolong their life is so similar to reducing the voltage on an incandescent lamp, therefore prolonging its life.

  13. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars rootbrian says:

    A few 18650 cells (in series) could allow using those LED's (on both low and high combined) as a nifty flashlight with the proper DIY flood funnel (yes, a funnel painted with chrome).

  14. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Victory First says:

    The cost of most good led headlights are really well made and thought out. The problem is planned obsolescence as they could of used thicker metal for higher heat transfer. And there is room for that little bit more of aluminum would make this last way longer.
    I like your presentation and explanation of the whole unit itself. Job well done.

  15. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Edward Chamberlain says:

    Dip? Okay, so the opposite of high is? I'm just sayin'. Interesting video. Thanks.

  16. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars hillary clinton says:

    Now you know why they are so freaking expensive…

  17. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars nathanalaneller says:

    what type of lamp is it? (Curious)

  18. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars keith tanner says:

    Recently a reviewer assessed around 8 LED headlamp bulbs but only one was correctly constructed to match the lamp reflectors. Consequently, the remainder either failed to put enough illumination onto the road or, in most instances, blinded drivers of oncoming vehicles.

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